a few remarks from an experienced spinner/knitter/weaver :1. should you wait for that one special project : no, it is better to use it more or less immediately, that way you learn more about spinning (how much differs a handspun yarn from a commercial yarn)
2. it takes more time to knit a certain amount of yarn then to spin that amount of yarn
3. you will probably come across the fact that sometimes you enjoy very much to spin a certain braid of fibres but you don't like the knitted result, or it is something that you will never wear.
4. if you want to spin a fingeringweight yarn then I would suggest that you start with non-dyed fibres, they are usually easier to draft, a BFL is in my opinion the best fibre to learn to spin fine (or very fine)
good luck with all your projects, the handspun/knitted blanket is a very good idea.
Let me start by saying I started spinning just a little before you did and I also use a tabletop device. Now my first thought is maybe use your box of 12 batts for a single project…a cowl or shawl perhaps. My next thought is why limit yourself to just knit or crochet. You could make that blanket and use both knitting and crochet and not only use your hand spun but use your own knowledge of stitches and make your own pattern. There is a cardigan pattern out there that uses crocheted granny squares for the front and back and then you knit the sleeves, collar and button band. I thought it was quite ingenious and you could possibly do something similar with a blanket. Keeping in mind one uses more yarn to crochet maybe use your larger quantities for that and knit with the smaller amounts. You wanted ideas there’s a couple to consider.
I also completely agree with your thoughts on how spinning is so relaxing and meditative.
You have been busy, but getting very good with each spinning, you just have to decide what you will make with all those lovely colours you’ve created.😁👌
Handspun yarn is far denser than commercial yarn, so will not go as far when comparing weights. Your yarns are lovely and you really need only the plainest of patterns to set them off, they would be lost in too many cables or fancy stitches. Another way to use them is to make them a feature in a hat or a jumper. Me? I keep my favourites around and pat them to remind them how beautiful and soft they are, and when I have an excess, I put them up for sale. Where I live there are lots of knitters but not so many spinners willing to part with their yarns.
I knit a lot of my hand spun and did the MKAL Geogradiant in my hand spun hand dyed but had to spin and dye extra part way through as I ran out.
When crocheting I was taught to only use signals. I have some lovely lacy small shawls. Use a larger hook so the texture of the yarn and the lace how properly. Too tight a tension can make a very harsh garment.
a few remarks from an experienced spinner/knitter/weaver :1. should you wait for that one special project : no, it is better to use it more or less immediately, that way you learn more about spinning (how much differs a handspun yarn from a commercial yarn)
2. it takes more time to knit a certain amount of yarn then to spin that amount of yarn
3. you will probably come across the fact that sometimes you enjoy very much to spin a certain braid of fibres but you don't like the knitted result, or it is something that you will never wear.
4. if you want to spin a fingeringweight yarn then I would suggest that you start with non-dyed fibres, they are usually easier to draft, a BFL is in my opinion the best fibre to learn to spin fine (or very fine)
good luck with all your projects, the handspun/knitted blanket is a very good idea.
Let me start by saying I started spinning just a little before you did and I also use a tabletop device. Now my first thought is maybe use your box of 12 batts for a single project…a cowl or shawl perhaps. My next thought is why limit yourself to just knit or crochet. You could make that blanket and use both knitting and crochet and not only use your hand spun but use your own knowledge of stitches and make your own pattern. There is a cardigan pattern out there that uses crocheted granny squares for the front and back and then you knit the sleeves, collar and button band. I thought it was quite ingenious and you could possibly do something similar with a blanket. Keeping in mind one uses more yarn to crochet maybe use your larger quantities for that and knit with the smaller amounts. You wanted ideas there’s a couple to consider.
I also completely agree with your thoughts on how spinning is so relaxing and meditative.
I don't spin but I'm loving watching your journey. Especially happy you have an Ashford spinner, as I'm watching from NZ 🙂
You have been busy, but getting very good with each spinning, you just have to decide what you will make with all those lovely colours you’ve created.😁👌
Handspun yarn is far denser than commercial yarn, so will not go as far when comparing weights. Your yarns are lovely and you really need only the plainest of patterns to set them off, they would be lost in too many cables or fancy stitches. Another way to use them is to make them a feature in a hat or a jumper. Me? I keep my favourites around and pat them to remind them how beautiful and soft they are, and when I have an excess, I put them up for sale. Where I live there are lots of knitters but not so many spinners willing to part with their yarns.
Oh Martyn, you have progressed in leaps and bounds. Its so perfect your spinning. Im in awe!!
I knit a lot of my hand spun and did the MKAL Geogradiant in my hand spun hand dyed but had to spin and dye extra part way through as I ran out.
When crocheting I was taught to only use signals. I have some lovely lacy small shawls. Use a larger hook so the texture of the yarn and the lace how properly. Too tight a tension can make a very harsh garment.
Oooh can’t wait to see what you decide to make… of course I am all for a crochet blanket!!